Ranch Road
2019 Merlot
, Sonoma County
Dry Creek Valley

Aromas of black cherry, plum and black currant immediately filling the glass.  The palate is full of wonderful complexity, combining flavors of blackberry, boysenberry while framed by notes of vanilla and hints of leather.  Complex yet smooth, this single vineyard hillside Merlot is beautiful, has excellent structure and balance with a full, round quality that lingers.

Modern, structured, luscious and generous while retaining a distinctly "old school" feel.  One of the finest we've opened.

Enjoy solo by the glass, or pair with pasta, grilled chicken, braised short ribs, charcuterie and more...

VINEYARD
An undiscovered gem for many, Dry Creek Valley has been producing some of California's finest wines for decades.  Ranch Road Vineyards flourish from a unique micro-climate region located at one of the highest vineyard elevations in the Dry Creek appellation. This 4th generation family tend their hillside vineyard just eight miles west of Healdsburg.

VINTAGE
The 2019 vintage was a leisurely growing season with a late summer start. This seasonal change allowed for longer standing times, even ripening and fuller fruit while preserving natural acidity.  Harvest started about a week later than average compared to prior vintages.  Mild growing conditions led to a very long season, with fruit picking lasting well into October.  This extended season allowed for picking each block of grapes at the ideal level of maturity, producing balanced, flavors with complexity and nuance.

Appellation:  Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County
Varietals:  100% Merlot aged in French Oak
Harvested:  October, 2019
Bottled:  July, 2022
pH:  3.6
TA:  5.8 g/l
Alcohol:  13.8%

Tasting Notes  PDF

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